We had the good fortune of connecting with TaRae Porter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi TaRae, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
Patience. Not only is patience a virtue, but it is the only way that you will accomplish your goals without giving up. Patience has taught me not only to slow down, but see the bigger picture instead of rushing to the first line. After carrying seven successful pregnancies, I can see patience and the gift of delivering some of the greatest things on earth.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me, Tarae Porter, apart from other authors is a unique blend of life experiences and creative talents that have shaped my journey as a writer and artist. From a young age, I displayed an innate passion for storytelling, with my literary journey beginning as early as kindergarten. This early start set the foundation for a lifelong love affair with words and narratives.

Throughout my academic years, I consistently stood out, winning awards for my writing from elementary school through high school. My ability to craft compelling essays and narratives not only earned me recognition but also paved the way for unexpected opportunities. One of the most remarkable moments was receiving a full-ride scholarship for a career I hadn’t initially pursued, all because of a single essay that left a lasting impact.

Despite my undeniable talent, it took me several years to find the confidence to share my creative works with the world. At the age of 14, I crafted an interactive story that remained hidden away until I finally mustered the courage to publish it at the age of 32. This delay in sharing my stories allowed me to develop a unique perspective and depth in my writing that sets me apart from others in the field.

Beyond the written word, I ventured into the world of music at a young age. I became a rap and performing artist when I was just 16, using my lyrical prowess to move and inspire people through the power of music. My ability to convey emotions and messages through my lyrics adds another layer to my storytelling, making my work both dynamic and impactful.

In essence, what sets me apart is not only my prolific literary journey, but also my ability to seamlessly blend the worlds of writing and music to create a multifaceted artistic experience. My journey as an author and artist has been shaped by a rich tapestry of experiences, from early recognition to unexpected scholarships, and from the courage to finally publish to the emotional depth of my lyrics. It is this unique combination of talents and life experiences that defines my identity as Tarae Porter and sets me apart in the world of creative expression.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Columbus

Morning:

9:00 AM: Welcome friend at the airport/bus station and bring them to my home.
10:00 AM: Begin your day with breakfast at a local favorite, like Northstar Café or Katalina’s.
11:30 AM: Visit the Columbus Museum of Art to explore a diverse collection of art.
Afternoon:

1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at The Pearl, known for its Southern-inspired cuisine.
2:30 PM: Stroll through the scenic Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
4:00 PM: Head to the historic German Village for a walk down charming brick streets and visit the Book Loft, a beloved independent bookstore.
Evening:

6:00 PM: Dinner at Lindey’s Restaurant and Bar, known for its classic American dishes.
8:00 PM: Catch a performance or show at the Ohio Theatre, if there’s one scheduled during your visit.
Day 2: History and Culture

Morning:

9:00 AM: Start your day with breakfast at Pistacia Vera in the Short North Arts District.
10:30 AM: Explore the Ohio Statehouse, learning about the state’s history and government.
12:00 PM: Visit the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) for interactive science exhibits.
Afternoon:

1:30 PM: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Table, a farm-to-table restaurant.
3:00 PM: Explore the vibrant Short North Arts District, known for its galleries and boutiques.
4:30 PM: Take a walk along the Scioto Mile and enjoy the beautiful riverfront views.
Evening:

6:00 PM: Dinner at Barcelona Restaurant and Bar, offering Spanish-inspired cuisine.
8:00 PM: End the day with a visit to the Shadowbox Live for live music, comedy, or theater performances.
Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

Morning:

8:00 AM: Grab a quick breakfast at Fox in the Snow Café.
9:00 AM: Head to Hocking Hills State Park for a day of hiking and exploring waterfalls, caves, and scenic trails.
Afternoon:

12:30 PM: Enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of Hocking Hills.
3:00 PM: Return to Columbus and relax with a visit to the Scioto Audubon Metro Park for birdwatching and scenic views of the city.
Evening:

6:30 PM: Dinner at Milestone 229, an upscale restaurant with a stunning view of the Scioto River and city skyline.
8:00 PM: Wind down with a leisurely walk along the Scioto Mile and take in the illuminated cityscape.
Day 4: Farewell and Souvenirs

Morning:

9:00 AM: Enjoy breakfast at a local cafe, perhaps Kittie’s Cakes in German Village.
10:30 AM: Spend your morning shopping for souvenirs or gifts in the Short North Arts District or Easton Town Center.
Afternoon:

12:30 PM: Have a farewell lunch at North Market, where you can sample various cuisines.
2:00 PM: Drop off your friend at the airport/bus station, bidding them farewell with fond memories of their visit to Columbus.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate the shout out to God the most high. The God of my understanding has not only brought me through the vicissitudes of life, but given me the strength to continue my dreams as well. I would like to give a shout out to my significant other, who has been there for me through a very pivotal, part of my budding career. Many people have said they believed in me however, he is the one that encouraged me and been by my side through it all.

Website: https://faithoverfearpub.wixsite.com/pennybold

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faithoverfear_publishing/

Linkedin: https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrEuW5ksQFlOdUJiEsPxQt.;_ylu=Y29sbwNiZjEEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1694638564/RO=10/RU=https%3a%2f%2fwww.linkedin.com%2fin%2fta-ra-e-porter-65221a25a/RK=2/RS=AaRTSwLEJXSE8MrI3O8tdCE58hk-

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086224269689

Image Credits
I personally took all the photos

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